Monticello — The Monticello Varsity Cheerleaders spent the weekend in Lexington,

during Fall Break. The trip was planned as a "learning experience" and

hopefully it gave prospective students a glimpse of college life. A parent

noted, "the trip proved to be a good bonding experience for the girls,

also." On Saturday, October 17 the cheerleaders attended and watched the

Showtyme Cheer and Dance competition at Dunbar High School. Being a

relatively young squad, with no Seniors and only one Junior, they are

inexperienced around competitions. Watching this event gave the squad a

chance to see what it was all about before undertaking something on this

level.

After leaving the competition, they headed to the Lexington Ice Center

where many of the girls attempted ice skating for the first time. "I think

they enjoyed it more than they are willing to admit it," said coach Kelly.

"They did really well, had a lot of fun, and I am just thankful no one was

injured."

They finished the day off with a wonderful meal at a Lexington favorite,

Rafferty's Steak House. And then they returned to the hotel to rest for an

early morning tour of UK campus.

UK does not normally give tours on a Sunday; however, they arranged a

full tour of the campus for the cheerleaders. "I really appreciate them

getting up and coming out on a cold Sunday morning to do that for us", said

coach Kelly. "A few buildings were not open, but we still got the grand

tour, and I hope I can talk one of these girls into going to UK eventually.

Of course, I am a little partial to UK."

One of the highlights of this trip was getting to meet the 17 time

National Champion University of Kentucky Cheerleaders. It's always exciting

to see a group like that in person. They are a great inspiration.